Ancient Cloth

Muffy

2012-03-12T04:52:00.002-07:00

So this is what I have been up to, well besides driving the children all around, laundry and yadah, yadah, ya......

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You are probably wondering, "What does this little bear have to do with anything???"

This was a gift to daughter #2 for a birthday many moons ago. The teddy bear is called:

Muffy Vanderbear.

While thrifting on Saturday at one of my favorite spots I found this:

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I found two little cherry pies that go with Muffy Vanderbear. They came in the little bakery

boxes, but the boxes were not that beautiful. Anyway, I got both of them for $ .99 cents.

Pretty good deal....

I must confess, my daughter could care less. I am the one who wants to collect

the muffy bear "stuff".

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My next and most exciting find was this:

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A needlepoint frame! For a mere $ .99 cents! Yes, I love it. Very useful indeed. Also, a little sneek peek

of something I am working on. A little remake of something I have already stitched before. It is going

to be a gift for someone who has been a great inspiration to me.
Oh, and by the way...we have had all 4 seasons in one day this past week...crazy!
Have a great week!

Sunday

2012-03-05T02:36:00.002-08:00

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A rose one of my daughters stitched several years ago : )

sweet <3

Sorry, no photographs of my stitching because I am just continuing basting down pieces to my original quilt and I feel everyone has seen enough of that. I have have had a cold, but I am feeling better today.

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This fashion show is soooo creative and enchanting.

I love the clothes.

This is the most magical fashion show ever!

http://www.magnoliapearl.com/videosfinal/fashionshow/fashionshow.html

Have a great week!

Georgia and Secrets

2012-03-01T07:20:00.000-08:00

This was how I spent my day off....

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This is an old piece I am stitching to my very first quilt I am still making.

Obviously, it is inspired by Georgia O'keefe and numerology.

Why I put the two together...who knows??? I have no idea! lol!

A very old blurry picture I took of the cook book I had, (which I can not find now).

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More pieces I am basting to the middle layer....

Also continuing to read a little...

More snow today!
<3

Organization

2012-02-27T03:41:00.000-08:00

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I wish I could say that I was so organized but when the weeks are flying by and I am working all the time piles begin to appear on my desk and other spots. I am pretty sure a little black kitten found my
thread along the way and quietly jumbled some of it. : /

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thread....

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With my little bit of time in between taking children places I managed to light a candle and let the ceremony of "organize" begin....

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I pulled out my thread boxes and sharpie and began winding thread on bits of plastic card...

I know, I know...eeeuuk! But I bought the boxes years ago and today I would not invest in

plastic. Since I have it now I figure I will make use of it, right? Better not to throw it away.

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This picture is deceiving because the bowl of thread is almost a foot across...Have I confessed I have a thread addiction? It is like candy to me, especially the variegated kind.

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Lastly, I found some thread as I was going through all of it that will work perfectly for this

little project....I did not know I had so many options! lol! Have a great day : )

This and that!

2012-02-20T09:27:00.000-08:00

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This is a piece of embroidery I completed today. I have been working on it for a while. It is a gift, so I am not showing the whole thing. It is not that it is so complicated it was just a matter of finding the time to focus. (My word for the year!)

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A closeup of "weathered heart".

I wanted to add beading but did not have the right color beads so I did what any penny saving girl would do....I made up my own "beads" by doing french knots in the color I wanted : )

There is always a way around things when you are creating. That is what I love about stitching, embroidery, etc. You can make do with what you have.

<3

Loving this house:
http://www.apartmenttherapy.com/david-cats-eclectic-scandinavian-hideaway-house-tour-165915
<3

weathered heart

2012-02-17T08:06:00.000-08:00

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a weathered heart.......

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a (wip) work in progress...

Full moon, postcards and fabrics

2012-02-07T16:55:00.000-08:00

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Gift arrives...

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gorgeous silks and wool...

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and this lovely postcard which is: Portrait De Jeune Fille by Van Dongen Kees

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and this postcard which is: Woman sewing by lamplight, 1870-72

Jean-Francois Miller (1814-1875) The Frick Collection, New York.

These were sent by my dear friend Isabelle:

http://isathreadsoflife.wordpress.com/

merci' dear Isabelle <3

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This afternoon/evening I have worked on a few things that I can not share because they are gifts, but this one I can share because i wanted to participate in creating full moon art:
http://womanwithwingsblog.blogspot.com/
This piece is called "she moon"

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the front of "she moon"
The fabric under the moon is a piece of wool from Isabelle...thank you again Isabelle : )

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Lastly, this is another wonderful postcard I received from Marrakech this week from:
http://collageoflife-henrqs.blogspot.com/
Thank you so much Jeanne <3

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I feel like I have traveled to far away lands when I receive these lovely cards and it makes me feel deep gratitude for each of you.
I treasure each postcard.
A heartfelt thanks!
<3

Long and winding road...

2012-02-06T03:16:00.000-08:00

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A lovely old cape cod style home...

There are some mornings when I just feel the need to take a long winding scenic road to work.
I had my camera with me and thought I would share some of what I see. The day is sunny but
about 17 degrees outside so all these pictures are taken from my car.

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Look at this rambling old farm house...huge!

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This tree reminds me of a bird tree!

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this is a bird/puppet from a movie by Jim Henson

I think that tree looks just like this. What do you think?

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beautiful trees and snow!

I have lots of goodies to share with you tomorrow.

Have a great day!

Sweet face, books and day off!

2012-01-31T06:32:00.000-08:00

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My day off was a combination of things....found this book, which I had so long ago. I remember
it was sort of sad but Mayas strength is inspiring. It is about her confronting her own life with strength and dignity. Her tragedies and strengths.

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This book is hilarious! It is like your best friend being, lets say blunt and honest about what you should eat. She does not hold anything back including swear words. lol! Overall I can say I agree with what the book espouses, but there are some things that I think can be balanced. They recommend being complete vegetarian and at one point in my life I was an extreme vegetarian. I know it was easier to win the weight battle, but there has to be a balance because each person is unique. I will take the "hay and leave the sticks." Meaning what I feel works best for me.

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A fun book to dream of beautiful rooms.....

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I finished this little dolls sweet face... I am pleased.....

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I sketched in my little journal and dreamed up new creations and ideas.....

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chatted with daughter #1 on line, ate way too much chocolate (but I bought the one the Skinny Girls book recommended so I do not feel too guilty..lol!)http://danareva.hubpages.com/hub/Organic-Chocolate-VS-Regular-Chocolate I paired my lovely chocolate with bunches of

of hot tea.

Have a lovely day <3

Cloth and falling light

2012-01-29T08:04:00.000-08:00

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Stitching together cloth today and going with what the cloth has to offer. There are African fabrics and hand dyed fabrics included in this piece.The small hole was already there. It is part of a pillow case that belonged to my late grandmother. (I have mentioned this fabric before in another project.) The fabric is like butter when I touch it. So soft and willing to go in whatever direction I stitch.

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After I took this picture I looked at the cloth and noticed how just a spot of sunshine fell on
the fabric and the words, "light falling" came to me.....

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When I examined the cloth I had stitched I began to think about how the fabrics all come
together and how each piece has its own personality, so to speak : )

Elusive Valentines Cards

2012-01-26T05:25:00.000-08:00

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Valentines is one of my favorite Holidays because to me it is a no pressure kind of event. I love remembering friends and special ones on this day.
I was out yesterday in search of the ultimate Valentines cards and could not find any.......no not one!
The one above is from a package I found last year at one of my favorite discount home stores,
Home Goods. But, nothing to be found this year...no where! Usually I find something in one of many of my favorite spots. But zero...nothing : (

This year I am going to have to be creative....

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This is me on my day off wearing my favorite outfit (running around looking for those Valentines cards!)....hair in two braids, little make up , my warm scarf and my LIFE IS GOOD t-shirt!

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this is me all ready to go to work the previous day....

and this is what I worked on after I got back from running around looking for those elusive cards and misc. errands......stitching stars!

Have a great day!

Paying attention

2012-01-24T06:15:00.000-08:00

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I have cloth hanging on my walls and this piece keeps standing out to me....
When something keeps grabbing my attention it is time to take a closer look....pay attention. *
Maybe it is about waking up to the fact that each day is a gift and that the desire to be cared for is something that happens automatically from spirit. Perhaps my definition of feeling nurtured and safe needs to be redefined so I find more gratitude in each day. It is about accepting the divine feminine within and the strength that comes with that....
Maybe it is about me being kinder to myself. Be the nurturer to me.

It is about acknowledging the mother in me and that I am so busy running around trying to be the best I can for everyone else. Maybe she is saying "Hey you!"

"Pay attention to you!"

Perhaps another reason it keeps "jumping out at me" is because it is part of my original quilt pieces that needs to be finished!

: )

I must have it finished by April...more to come about that later.

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This cloth continues with lots of words.....

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another view of this cloth....

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This is a new picture of daughter #1....
I am grateful she is strong and wise beyond her years....

I am missing her because she lives far away, but she is always in my heart <3

* addendum: Perhaps the goddess figure stands out because I am traveling through menopause. Waking at night soaked and then freezing! sometimes during the day turning so hot while trying to work :/. It seemed turning 51 was like going around a corner and realizing that you must change your ways and care for yourself. That extra 10 pounds that literally came out of nowhere....fast! Knowing exercise and eating good things are the only way through this. Changing my thoughts too!
just thinking.....
: )

adding

2012-01-22T06:40:00.000-08:00

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As I have tried to be more disciplined about stitching I have realized that each moment that we stitch we are "adding" to and building the blocks of the quilt...Each stitch makes a difference. The piece grows ever so slowly. I see life is that way. The little things we do each day add up. Good or bad.

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back to stitching.....

she's back .....

2012-01-20T06:40:00.000-08:00

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to her stitching ways.....

: )

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Have a great weekend!

A beautiful day

2012-01-15T17:00:00.000-08:00

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This is my day....driving by a small barn at a local apple orchard. (It was such a gorgeous day and I always
love seeing this little place.) At night the Christmas wreath is lit by a single up-light and it is quite beautiful. See the very old apple tree to the right? There is a whole orchard of trees to the right of this
picture.

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This is a local park that sits at the lake edge. Just beyond the sign is the lake which is partially frozen
over. I decided to take a drive to my favorite little quilt shop which takes me through the country side and this little park is along the way. It is my way of getting away from it all.

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I stocked up on some of my favorite bits of fabrics: 1930's replica flour sack cloths and replica Civil War fabric.

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It is not like I needed more fabric....it is more like a diversion for me. A way to get away from it all.
I stopped in at a local grocery store grabbed a hot cup of coffee and a gingerbread man with a peace sign on it! Fun times for moi".

results :/

2012-01-11T03:06:00.000-08:00

Obviously the girl does not know what she is doing! lol! I boiled my pomegranate skin
and seeds. Threw my fabric in, let it sit for a while, added a bit of salt to pull the color
out of the seeds and skin. I let the fabric sit ALL DAY. When I came home it was a lovely pinkish color.
I added a bit of white vinegar. Rinsed the fabric with cold water. Still a bit pink. Washed with soap (probably a bad idea) Still a nice bit of pink. Let dry overnight....

: /

(the result!)

This is not a great photo of the fabric because it is dark this early morning....

Don't let the picture fool you. It looks pinkish but the fabric really looks a shade

more beige yellow. When I first hung it to dry it was a slight pinkish color with a few

deepened spots. But they disappeared! Obviously, I have a lot to learn. I think linen would

have worked better then Kona cotton.....

Now I am determined to learn about this process. I have read India Flint has a fabulous book.

Will have to look into that.

I found this blog that is no longer posting but thought it was interesting and worth sharing:

http://simmy.typepad.com/echoesofadream/2006/08/natural_dyeing_.html

Pomegranate

2012-01-10T06:16:00.000-08:00

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THIS +THIS =????

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This is my quick project for today....

My son ate a pomegranate for breakfast and I asked him to save me his leftover bits.

(Many of you are pros at this but for me it is a new adventure.)

wish me luck!

Progress

2012-01-09T02:51:00.000-08:00

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Old cloth being revisited......

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Gathering fun photos for a miniature book for daughter #1 that I have been working on for at least 2 years. The little tiny book has pictures of family and just random things that are meaningful to my daughter and myself.

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Still stitching on dolls and working on new ideas for this coming year....
<3

words and dolls

2012-01-05T05:07:00.000-08:00

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So, I have begun this new year with keeping a journal of thoughts, words, new creative drawings of things I want to make, and poetry I find that resonates with me. My own poetry and poetry of others...

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My open journal.....

Keeping a journal is not new to me as I have other smaller ones. The difference now is I want to add consistency to my journaling. Trying to do something every day.

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I have been stitching away on some new little doll faces. The one in the center turned out too somber, so a new one was begun on the right. Funny how each little face "becomes" what it wishes. No matter how hard I try to control the outcome...it just becomes the face it wants to. I took apart and re-stitched the doll in the centers face 3 times and no matter what...it was somber!

I have found a new book by Alice Walker. I could not photograph it because of the glare on the cover of the book.

http://alicewalkersgarden.com/2010/11/hard-times-require-furious-dancing/

It is a lovely book of poetry.

I particularly enjoyed "My Teacher"

(about Marley Mu)

and

"Calling all Grand Mothers"

This is good:
http://alicewalkersgarden.com/2012/01/democratic-womanism-
2/

p.s. regarding goals check out this:
http://www.gaiansoul.com/2012/01/my-non-goals-for-2012/
LOVE IT!

Reflections

2011-12-31T16:08:00.000-08:00

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I am making a list of things I want to accomplish this coming year. A new beginning....

Really it is an illusory beginning. Each new day that we rise up and go is a "new beginning." I have pulled out a sketch book that I bought to sketch in and I want to begin a journal again of thoughts, words, ideas, dreams. I have put a poster board of goals in front of my desk.

I have found inspiration these last few days. Inspiration that I consider a gift. A phone call from a dear artist friend whom I treasure.

A phone call that has inspired me to get along in my creative endeavors. Something that can lead to some very exciting possibilities for me in the future.

I have found an artist that has inspired me to rise above limitations

and do better with what I have.

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I am thinking about although life has been more difficult then I ever dreamed what I treasure most are

the moments I share with my family.
Each time my children share some insight or we laugh together,

having good food and a roof over our head and being healthy...these are the things I am grateful for.

I am also grateful for the circle of women who visit here and always leave me with a sense of gratitude and a smile.

Finally, for those of you following along this (pictures above) is what I made with the woven red fabrics...a little shirt for this elfin fellow that is a gift.

I will raise my cup of tea to you and....

I am wishing you and your families a Happy New Year !

I really like this blog: http://urban-patchwork.com/?cat=11

http://digsandbean.blogspot.com/

http://skunkboycreatures.blogspot.com/

Merry making

2011-12-28T07:14:00.000-08:00

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Stitched up this.....I am a little slow this year...

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This is a picture of the family dessert competition. My eggnog cake is missing in the picture. It was tasty and the judges liked it, but it did not win : (

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This is one of the winners along with the cake in the jar! It was a lot of fun!

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So after all the food and fun... time for a more nutritional way of eating. I found these at the library.

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This book is beautifully illustrated and is family friendly. Enchiladas, breakfast potatoes, Sherried tomato soup, skillet cornbread just to name a few recipes....mmmm!

Merry Christmas

2011-12-24T13:09:00.000-08:00

Merry Christmas to you and yours!

a little bit "risky"

2011-12-14T11:47:00.000-08:00

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I have been restless for the last few nights as I have not felt 100% so while laying in bed awake I began
to think of my little Christmas project and I decided to transform the quilt pieces into a woven piece...
a little bit risky, but I think once it all comes together into what it is meant to be it will be perfect.

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yesterday morning before work daughter #2 and I took a quick picture together. I love these

little moments we share. We giggle and have fun and it makes my day before work brighter.

: )

it's all about red

2011-12-12T07:24:00.000-08:00

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I decided to go through my stash and find different shades/prints of red. I wanted more of a solid feel but with slight texture. So the various little patterns give that textured feel. This is the start of something I am creating for a gift. : )

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I cut out the squares very random with no thought of perfection. I quickly stitched them on the machine and I will begin adding some hand stitching.

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A new found book that I plan on reading. Frida has always fascinated me. She took her tragedy and made it into art. She was complex and simple. She struggled with life, as we all do. I think that is why I am drawn to her....

note: the movie version with Selma Hayek was really well done.

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This book looked intriguing...I'll let you know once I read it.

the answer...

2011-12-10T06:24:00.000-08:00

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My answer to all the craziness : )

Mexican hot chocolate!

This is my version:

1 cup of whole milk

2 tsp. cocoa

1 tsp. vanilla

1 1/2 tsp. of sugar

a pinch of chili powder to taste

a pinch of cinnamon to taste +

cinnamon sprinkled on top

and lots of whip cream on top!

(sometimes I add cardamon, and omit vanilla)

: )

a gift of roses

2011-12-07T06:20:00.000-08:00

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(a felt snowflake)

Quietly and gently this beautiful gift came to me....

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You see I was not expecting such a lovely gift to arrive.

With great surprise I opened the package...

and I found this lovely hand stitched quilt of roses.

I love the spiral of beading around the roses and seeing each lovingly stitched bit of thread...gorgeous!

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There are bits of fabric from France, England, Holland and even India all stitched with love from Isabelle in Switzerland:

http://isathreadsoflife.wordpress.com/

This is a treasure and my heart is full...

with deep gratitude "thank you from my heart."

making

2011-12-04T02:50:00.000-08:00

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Yep, this is what I am up to....crocheting 100% cotton washcloths or dishrags, which ever you prefer.

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I let daughter #2 pick the color of yarn, which I think is so much fun because it is variegated!

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Obviously, this is not perfect and it is my first try, but I am loving the imperfections : )

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I think I am getting better at this.....??? (to the right). I wanted to make something that would be useful and practical for gifts.

Have a great day!

denim quilt

2011-12-02T07:50:00.000-08:00

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I had wanted to show these pictures sooner but my internet was out from Tuesday until today (Friday). Our last kitten is sooo curious about anything and everything. I laid out the quilt to photograph it and she jumped right in.

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The quilts were made by my friend Becky @ http://snailcloth.blogspot.com/

Have a great weekend!

Comfort

2011-11-28T14:24:00.000-08:00

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Today was all about "comfort"....I made my homemade pumpkin soup...Nothing says warmth and comfort like a bowl of soup...mmmm.

This is my homemade recipe:

~fresh pumpkin cooked and pureed~ready to put in a soup.

or I used ~1 can of pumpkin puree

~1 fresh onion
~enough olive oil to saute' onion

~ approx 2 cups chicken broth or vege broth (I used chicken broth)

~ approx 1 cup cream (I used half and half)

~salt

~pepper

~curry or cumin

~tamari pepitos (pumpkin seed)

~smoked gouda cheese

~saute` onions in olive oil until they become clear. Add spices to the onion. Add pumpkin puree` and chicken broth. Stir on low heat until hot. Add cream and stir. Remove from heat and garnish with shredded smoked gouda cheese and pepitos or your favorite topping.

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This came in the mail a few days ago and is such a comfort.
2 beautiful handmade quilts from a dear friend. They are made from scraps of recycled denim and have hearts (my favorite) in some of the squares.
Thank you <3

I am...

2011-11-24T17:39:00.000-08:00

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I am thankful.

(this is being added to the Boro Madona quilt)

Chocolate, children and limes

2011-11-20T02:21:00.000-08:00

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Drinking this: Lime + water because I bought a whole bunch of them for a really good price.

I am working a lot....

I have a house full of children....3 extra boys and 1 extra girl plus my 3.

I love love love this picture...

this is how I feel.

: )

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and eating way too much of this for comfort.

It's all good...

: )

Wolf

2011-11-18T02:11:00.000-08:00

I enjoyed watching this and thought I would share it with you....

powerful!

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My daughter <3

Happy !

2011-11-16T09:51:00.000-08:00

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The thrifting goddess was smiling on me today!

I walked up the Christmas aisle at my favorite thrifty store and look what jumped out at me....

My eyes got really bright and a smile lit up my face. "I said to myself it has to be mine, only .99 cents and made in Japan."

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Even with all it's little chippiness and wear...I am happy and smitten...

Thank you thrifting goddess : )

Smile!

2011-11-16T09:35:00.000-08:00

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I bought some new fluorescent DMC thread and look who wanted to get into the picture....

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I have not mentioned that in September we became the proud parents of kittens, from the alleged fixed cat we took in last winter.

: /

Two are already gone to a loving home and the white one is promised to someone. (she is the sweetest and honestly my favorite, yep I am playing favorites.)

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2 curious little kittens....

Un stuffed!

2011-11-14T05:04:00.000-08:00

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I know this is not pretty but this is what I worked on yesterday. You see I am trying to slowly get through all the projects that have been lying around for months. This is the arm of a doll and you see how those little fibers are coming through the fabric? I kept walking by and looking at the doll thinking she was somehow getting dusty from neglect but upon further inspection I realized it was polyester fibers coming through. I thought surely if I pull them off that will be the end of it. Nope!
I wanted natural fibers like 100% cotton or wool stuffing. At this point no such luck locally. I found some organic cotton on line. I will say I found a combination of bamboo and polyester locally and I opted to purchase that so I could finish this project. I unstuffed the doll and used the bamboo/poly fiber fill. I will say it is 85% better but, not perfect.

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This is the bamboo/poly fiber fill. Notice it looks more like cotton.....

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This is the nasty stuff...notice the shiny fibers! They are stiff and work their way through the fabric continuously. eeuk!

I know this stuff is part of the plastic/oil industry. Seems to me the natural fibers are sooo easy and readily available but instead we are inundated with this stuff at the sewing stores! Just saying....

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I finally stitched up a doll dress using scraps of 1930's reproduction fabric.

Just need to make her knickers and do her hair.

Give Away Ideas

2011-11-02T04:37:00.000-07:00

The first "giveaway" information is:

My favorite makeup remover. Dr. Bronners Magic "All-One!" Fair Trade & Organic Conconut oil.
Yep, you got it. Go right to the oil section of your Whole Foodsy Health store and ask for the coconut oil.
It will look like a solid white shortening. It smells sooo good. I am a coconut fan. (Notey: If your allergic to nuts or coconut then this is not for you.) It cost me about $10, but it will last a L-o-n-g time! You only use about 1/2 the size of a dime or less per time.Just wipe on eyes and tissue off. Wah la! I leave my jar on the counter in the kitchen. Good for cooking too. : )

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p.s. I am sure you noticed I switched back to my old blog format. I missed my blog roll showing. I like seeing when there is a new blog post. Plus this feels "home-ee" : )

Now I just need to figure out how to make my header not so big and in your face. lol!

after the fact

2011-11-01T17:15:00.000-07:00

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A recent find...I have just begun reading this book. Love it!

Part 1, “Handbook for Earth-Connected Parenting,” gives techniques for developing a child's inner wisdom and sense of the sacred: dream journals, visualization, Tarot play, talismans, and interactions with the natural world

Part 2 is a guide to the specific seasonal festivals, and offers a comprehensive collection of practical and enjoyable ways to celebrate the sacred days of our ancestors. Make a bean rune divination system, gather smudge sticks, grow grass pots, assemble a “dream pillow,” create altars the authors offer easy-to-follow suggestions.

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Although it is after the fact aka Halloween I am still enjoying this candle lampshade....

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reminds me of shadow puppets.

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finished this!

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almost done with Frida Kahlo. I want to add some earrings and perhaps add more detail to the flowers.

Trying to figure out how to add the 5 o'clock shadow with thread??? I have had to rip it out twice!

: )

Remembering

2011-11-01T02:39:00.000-07:00

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This is what I call my 5 minute altar. I planned on really taking my time and preparing but.......life happens and calls one in too many directions. So I accept with gratitude a few moments to remember those I love.

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Hoping your day was special!

Snow!

2011-10-29T03:11:00.000-07:00

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Our first snow.....

Yes, I am still here...just busy. Still working on my embroidery skull. I hope to have some things to show later. Until then...
<3

Besom making

2011-10-20T18:26:00.000-07:00

I had the opportunity to attend a workshop at one of my favorite bead shops. The workshop
was for Besom making. The word besom means: a broom made of twigs tied round a stick.

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The bristles can be made of twigs, straw, or herbs. In my broom I used eucalyptus because it is a symbol for protection. I added wheat to symbolize abundance. I am uncertain what the bushy grass is in the main part of the broom. All the supplies were provided.
Most of the women chose to add ribbon and bows but, I wanted to wait and add some beading and fabric scraps. You can see the jute that was wrapped twice to hold the "sticks" and grass in place.

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The broom has been associated with sweeping away negative energies and protection. If you think
about it the fact that a home is swept clean changes the feeling of a room.

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During the burning times in Europe the broom was an important tool for witches. It was something that was common and was used daily by everyone. So being a common item witches were able to use the broom quietly for clearing an area for ritual work. It could hide one of their most important tools, the wand. Some ancient brooms contained hidden compartments in the handle.

At this time of year near Halloween we begin to see that image of a crone riding a broom and one explanation for that coming about could be that witches would go into an altered state of consciousness and astral project themselves in spirit. Hence they were metaphorically "flying" and the broom was added because it was a tool of importance. There is so much written on this so I will not even try to address all the possibilities and I am certainly no expert.

The broom has been used for marriage ceremonies, called "jumping the broom". Again, there is a lot written on this.

Lastly, I thought it was interesting that the word besom can be found in the Bible under:

I will sweep it with the besom of destruction, saith the Lord of hosts.

— Isaiah 14:23 (KJV translation)

Love this:

https://justameretreefarm.com/brooms/

Gathering Earth Spirits

2011-10-18T19:41:00.000-07:00

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pinecone spiral dance...

As Fall continues to descend on us daily I was inspired to gather Earth Spirits and play. Inspired by this:
http://youtu.be/B4jV87O_cMI

Thank you Deb @ Bee Creative for giving me the information!!!! http://beecreative.typepad.com/

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rock and acorns

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wood, stone, and acorn ....

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I went into a local business and came across this postcard on a bulletin board.

It seemed to "call out" to me when I saw it on the board.

Initially I walked away from the board but, decided to go back

and look closer at the postcard.

I asked the person in charge of the place of business if they knew this person??? They replied "No, but said I could have the postcard."

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This is the backside of the postcard.

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Later in the day I was visiting a book, crystal, stone store. I went in to pick

up some rose oil and I quickly dashed through the store and look what I found!!!!

It jumped off the shelf at me!!!! (metaphorically speaking.)

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THE BOOK!

This is a story of one women's journey in to the supernatural world.

As a child she thought everyone experienced the things she did.

As she grew up she realized that not everyone was aware of the paranormal and that angels and spirits are around us everyday. She became very quiet about her awareness.

As she has matured she realized that it was important to share her story so that others who may have experienced similar experiences would know that they are not alone...

"She is an everyday mother and wife."

A lovely music box song by George Winston.

Lastly, I have been working on a skull for my Dia De Los Muertos (Day of the Dead) altar, to honor
those who have passed on. I ordered a pattern from Sublime Stitching. I love her stuff and we all need
to support our creative fellow Sista! : )

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Stitiching Fun!

stones

2011-10-10T19:05:00.000-07:00

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I began this project many months ago. I was inspired by this:

http://www.purlbee.com/the-purl-bee/2010/7/18/margaret-oomens-little-urchin-crochet-covered-sea-
stones.html

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I finally found some stones near this ancient stone fence near my home.....

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I am uncertain how old this fence is but there are many of these for miles and miles of road...
Ancient bits of history. I wonder as I drive along who built them and what were they like?
Were they building them to mark their land or keep their sheep from wandering?
It does not matter. I love the Ancient charm.

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Inspired to take both projects further by this:

http://womanwithwingsblog.blogspot.com/2011/10/half-moon-day.html

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Boro Madonna aka Water quilt... just adding a little more stitching, fabric and gathering to this one.

Mittens and a feather

2011-10-01T02:46:00.000-07:00

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I wanted a small project that would be quick and satisfied my stitching desire so I decided to stitch up

a feather.

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I was going through some papers and found this cool chart....

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Lastly, this is Mittens the cat. She is our adopted cat that showed up before the Summer began. She is sooo sweet and is so much more adorable than this picture shows. She is staying warm on my car because I just got home and the car is still warm from driving it. The children named her "Mittens" because she has 6 toes on both of her front paws only. It looks like she has thumbs. She was starving when we first found her and now she is looking rather healthy.

Wisdom Keepers

2011-09-30T07:27:00.000-07:00

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I finished reading this book. There were so many good stories. One phrase in the book that stood out for me was that when this particular Native American prayed, unlike others who pray and have a long list of wants; the Native American prayer is simply, "Thank you Great Spirit/God for all you have given."
No list of wants, just thank you. Although, I am not full blooded Native American my Grandfather's mother was. She was Cheyenne. When you look at my Grandfather's picture there is no mistake that he is Native American. So, when I read stories about this culture they resonate with my spirit...a knowing deep inside. I do not claim to be anything other than a "being" searching for truth in this world.

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Another book I finished reading this week was:

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Lynns books are always "timeless" teachings.

Simply New!

2011-09-28T07:15:00.000-07:00

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Hi Everyone!

(This is the bowl of my scrap thread and I keep this antique cookie cutter in it because it reminds me of my mother. I found the cookie cutter one day while visiting an antique store and immediately thought of my mother. When I went home I put it in my scrap thread bowl and that is where it has remained. I know...it is a little strange, but it makes me smile and I think of her and remember her when I reach it this little bowl.)

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a new little pouch i made.....

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This is a new look for my blog! I think it is pretty exciting because you can choose how you view my blog.

You simply go to the left hand side and choose from the menu which style you would like to view the blog in.
Choose from the following:

Classic
Flipcard
Magazine
Mosaic
Sidebar
Snapshot
Timeline

Also, I have added pages called:

Heart - inspired places to visit and inspirational stories.

I like that! (blog roll) - please bear with me while I construct my new blog list. I plan on adding everyone back in. It is going to take a little time.

About Me - obviously...about me lol! : )

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I am stitching outside and a leaf landed on my cloth...thought I would come in and share some
pictures...now...back outside!

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Simple me!

Enjoy!

Speechless

2011-09-27T02:59:00.000-07:00

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Not a lot of words....just pictures of what I am working on....and changes....

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a bit of wool fabric, beading and embroidery.....

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a stitched star...

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adding solid pieces of fabric to the "grandmother quilt"....

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adding some words and trying to decide whether to embroider them or leave it as it is????

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peace.....

Changes

2011-09-19T03:13:00.000-07:00

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I think the new year should begin in the Fall....
It seems like a time of change.
School begins for children and the weather softens.

Today I begin a new career.
I leave behind one I have put my heart and soul in to.
I am happy to begin anew.

I needed something that required the same level of attention, just on a smaller scale.
I hope with this new change I will have more time to dedicate to my little corner of the blog-o-sphere!
I worked on my grandmother quilt over the weekend and will share that at some point this week.

I am wishing you a happy New Beginning too!

Venturing out....

2011-09-13T02:52:00.000-07:00

Today was such a lovely clear blue sky day.

I secreted away and this is what I saw!

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Fall is unfolding and Summer has begun to melt away....
When I awake in the mornings dew
blankets the ground....

So thinking of cool Fall weather I had a "hankering" for wool....

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I visited my favorite yarn shop and found this:

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Chunky Peruvian Yarn....delicious!

Later in the day I went to #2 daughter's soccer game:

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and this was the view from the soccer field we were visiting....

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You can see boys preparing for a football game to the left.
It was such a gorgeous day and view.
Now on to some crochet, stitching and library....
<3

Frida and basil

2011-09-07T06:59:00.000-07:00

I read in this magazine, Organic Gardening Aug/Sep 2011 issue that on their Facebook Fans discussion
that Basil was in the top five favorite Summer herbs. I would have to agree.
Other favorites include: cilantro (my favorite), mint, parsley, oregano, rosemary, chamomile, peppermint, marjoram and chives.

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Basil from my garden....

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still working on Frida Kahlo.

I thought this was fun to see actual footage of Frida and Diego!

Lot's of changes for me, on the horizon.

until then....

Thought this was sweet:

Jonathon Livingston Seagull kinda day

2011-08-30T03:10:00.000-07:00

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When I saw this picture my daughter took I thought of this book:

Does anyone remember this book?

I remember it had such a profound impact on me in the early late 70's early 80's.

"I want to fly where no seagull has flow before. I want to know what there is to know about life!"

"Heaven isn't a place; heaven is perfection."

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a heart in the sand....

Daughter #2 and I were able to get away to the beach for about an hour and 1/2

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I was able to stitch a little.....

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Me...working on Frida Kahlo at the beach...

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a train passing by the beach....

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Seeing children playing on the beach is so heart-warming to
me. I love their little imaginations....sweet.

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a little visitor wanders casually by....

<3

watercolor

2011-08-28T13:23:00.000-07:00

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I have wanted to try watercolor pencils for the longest and I finally purchased some yesterday.

I bought a book called: Drawing Lab (52 creative exercises to make drawing fun)

by Carla Sonheim

She encourages you to do different projects and gives you assignments.

She writes, "It's a paradox when you have complete freedom, you often "freeze up" and do nothing. This book is a compilation of assignments that I have given myself over the years to get myself moving. Others were developed for elementary school-age students. When I started teaching adults, I found these same exercises to be the most effective. (We're all just kids inside still, right?)"

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These are some drawings I did with my water color pencils inspired by her book.

I have painted with acrylics but I found this to be fun due to no clean up and no mess.

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A nice thing to do on a rainy day.....

busy...

2011-08-27T06:47:00.000-07:00

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"Mercury Retrograde"

(this is an older piece I am showing)

I have been so busy working and dealing with "life"

that it is not until today that I am finding any free time....

I have missed my little corner of the world and look forward to sharing something new this weekend.

My whole world has been work and more work with l-o-n-g hours

and in between obtaining a new-to-me car.

The children started school this week and now there is a big storm

heading our way, which dashed my hopes of heading to the ocean for the day.

I have not been all summer and was hoping to go this weekend, but with

a hurricane coming....probably not the best idea.

Just maybe I will get to the lake????

Hope all of you are well...more to come later : )

feather bundle

2011-08-18T03:54:00.000-07:00

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farewell feathers........

a little sacred bundle off to the

Magic feather project

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Have a great day!

feathers and flowers

2011-08-14T15:49:00.000-07:00

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It is rare that I do not have to edit a photo. What I mean by that is darken, lighten, etc.

This Hydrangea flower is just gorgeous...unedited! It was a gift from a neighbor and to me it

says "New England" like no other flower.

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a close up of this beauty!

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This is a peacock looking feather and I am leaving it just the way it is. The white fabric is from the
pillow case that belonged to my grandmother. http://ancientcloth.blogspot.com/2011/07/summer-afternoons.html
It is very old and sooo soft to the touch. She would
be pleased to know that it was being used for something to give to children. She loved children so
much!

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http://spiritcloth.typepad.com/spirit_cloth/the-magic-feather-project.html

lastly, working on a stamped crow and two Magic feathers.
<3

Alike and Yet Not!

2011-08-10T07:48:00.000-07:00

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I am participating in Jude's Magic Feather Project.

http://spiritcloth.typepad.com/spirit_cloth/the-magic-feather-project.html

I thought it would be fun to start with Jude's black and white feather.

I plan on stitching a few of these little feathers and of course doing a few feathers in my own interpretation.

The feathers that are gathered will go toward a charitable purpose for children. I like that!

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This is a wip. The fabrics I am using are sooo special because they were given to me.

The colorful fabrics in the background came from a dear friend in Switzerland.

The fabrics are Japanese and are being made into a quilt for victims of the recent Tsunami in Japan.

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Some hand dyed lovely bits of fabric sent from

http://gerdiary.blogspot.com/

Thank you Gerdiary! <3

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This is daughter #1 on the far right in Russia. She went with her school.

What a beautiful building...http://www.dailymotion.com/video/xf7nc9_the-st-basil-s-cathedral-in-moscow_travel

I can not wait to hear about all the stories she has to tell : )
<3

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A little day time moon....

Summer has flown by in a blink of an eye!

I am trying to relish every moment I can.
Have a lovely day!

Frida and Chickens

2011-08-03T03:24:00.000-07:00

I have always appreciated the art of Frida Kahlo. I see how the bridge of her suffering
became her art and the two were intertwined. Her birthday was July 6, 1907. (my birthday
is July 6 too!)
A few facts about her are:
A streetcar accident in 1925 forever changed her life. She began painting while she was recovering.
She married Diego Rivera, a famous Mexican artist in 1928. She passed away in 1954.
There are many excellent books about her and a fabulous movie by Selma Hayek, portraying
Frida.

I have wanted to create an embroidery piece in honor of her for the longest:

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http://alicewalkersgarden.com/

I read this delightful book by Alice Walker (The Color Purple). It is a quick read, which for me is a good thing.
She beautifully weaves her everyday life with her chickens and shares heartwarming/touching
stories you will not forget. A must read.

Another delightful library find was:

http://theblackapple.typepad.com/

To my surprise Emily created two of her favorite historical heroes! One is Frida. This book is chock
full of the most creative and fun paper dolls I have ever seen. She gives you sooo much in this book.
She shows you how to create your own paper dolls, flip book, etc. etc. This is a must for those who love paper dolls, or moms with small children, or anyone who wants to learn a thing a two about painting/drawing.

Have a great week!

Wolves, pottery and rings...

2011-07-28T17:16:00.000-07:00

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daughter #3 and her "imaginary" wolf friend.

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My daughter insisted I not embroider the clothes on the wolf, formerly a fox. She said it was

"creepy" to put clothes on animals and so, I embroidered a bit of fur and green grass to cover the iron-on print.

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My daughter is pleased with her new picture : )

This is the most charming pottery I have found:

Watch the slide show. I promise it will bring a smile to your face.

http://www.flickr.com/photos/juliewhitmorepottery/show/

These rings are amazing!!!!

Romantic and brilliant:

http://www.lukejerram.com/projects/portrait_projecting_ring

http://www.lukejerram.com/projects/talking_ring

A little more quiet time outside today:

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Working on Grandmother's/Spring quilt.

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and look! what appeared....a little feather magic : )

A rare moment with daughter #2. She has been "on the go" this Summer and I really enjoy our time
together.

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A sweet kiss!

Make

2011-07-23T17:21:00.000-07:00

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Stitching on this today for daughter #3. This is from Sublime Stitching and was easy breezy
to iron on and stitch. I still have more stitching to do. Although this is a fox I am trying to make
it look more like a wolf. Daughter #3 l-o-v-e-s wolves.

http://www.sublimestitching.com/patterns/all

I have spent the day outside sitting under the shade trees. We have had a heat wave! So lots of ice
water and stitching going on here. Something I find interesting is while sitting on the ground with my blanket and all my lovely stitching things all the little bugs are so curious! They come out and have to check me out.
Every kind of ant you can imagine and then all these tiny unusual creatures one by one. Once they feel satisfied to have thoroughly checked me out, they leave me alone.

Speaking of bugs...I received this lovely birthday gift today from my dear friend Becky:

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She stitched up this fabulous cicada pouch and sent along some cards in it!

(sorry my picture just does not show how fabulous it is!)

I Love them...thank you soooo much <3

I brought my lovely gift outside and just as I was opening the pouch a chorus of cicada began to sing... how about that!!!!! I love synchronicity. : )

Also for you thrifty recycling kinda gals, I found this really interesting website. This Artist/ woman made her clothes, shoes, bras, etc. for a year and then had an opening at an Art Gallery. She did not make her fabric for the clothes in case you are wondering.
Check it out:

http://makeshiftproject.blogspot.com

A little Earth love........

from the garden.

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basil in the garden.....

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mixed lettuce from the garden....

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and me with my mind in the stars : )

I leave you with this sweet video...it makes me smile!

Have a great week!

Summer afternoons

2011-07-13T03:54:00.000-07:00

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I spent two days sitting outside in the shade working on piecing together this quilt. I have been basting the different quilt pieces to a larger piece of fabric that belonged to my grandmother. If you look closely in this second picture I have written "grandmother's fabric" on the photo, and you can see where I need to fill in with quilt pieces to cover the base fabric. The embroidered blue, pink and green basket was a very old pillow case that belonged to my late grandmother. It was ripped and was soooo old that to lightly pull at the fabric would rip it. Working with the pillowcase was like cutting a piece of butter and talk about soft to the touch!

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Also, in the lower right had corner is the rest of one of the linen calendar tops. I think am going to do some heavy stitching over that. I felt it was best to leave it as a whole piece rather than cut it up as I did the actual calendar part. (which is to the left).

For those of you who have been following me for a while, you will see some old quilt pieces have found a home here. I have been making quilt pieces and saving them for the right "spot" and this quilt is becoming the right "home" for those lost and forsaken little quilt pieces! (smiles!)

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Daughter #3 and a little summer magic : )

<3

Luna's a ninja

2011-07-10T06:38:00.000-07:00

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I get up at 2 a.m. because I hear one of my children still stirring around...
William: "Mom, Luna is a Ninja"
Me: "What? What do you mean?" (half awake)
William: "Somehow she got into the house and I do not know how."
Me: "Where is she?"
William: "I don't know."
Me: walking around the house looking for the "ninja cat"....I do not find her.
I go back to bed.

Fast forward to this morning.... I walk in the kitchen and the cat is in the house???
She meows at me. The only way I can think the cat got in was from one of our screens
because on the East
Coast a lot of homes do not have air conditioning, as most of the year it is not necessary.
I go to the screen by the porch and sure enough she decided to plow through it last night!
She is one determined kitty!
First, she does not want to stay inside and after many weeks of being outside she has decided
it was not so bad being inside!

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My shy 14 (soon to be 15 years old) son William

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I know it is hard to see but, I spent many hours outside yesterday stitching on this piece.

I re-worked the fabric strips because I wanted "pops" of color.

Daughter #3 said I chose "weird colors", but I am pleased with the color choices

and ultimately I am thinking of the bigger picture.

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I have a new appreciation for all the woven fabrics Jude at

spiritcloth has done!

http://spiritcloth.typepad.com/

I plan on being outdoors again today just enjoying the sunshine and peacefulness of the day.

There will be stitching, reading, writing in my journal, meditation and lastly some fresh greens

from the garden in my salad today!

I wish you a peaceful, sunny day <3

Shadow of self and Grandmother

2011-07-09T04:50:00.000-07:00

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I have been working on a series of hearts and this one is called "Shadow of Self "

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I have the basic pieces sewn down and now I need to embellish it. Not sure what direction I will go with
the embellishment. hmmm?

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Some fabric weaving with an old Linen calendar....

My grandmother had passed away and I was given some of her linen calendars. I remember she purchased them from me for a school fund raiser. You can imagine how old they are! They look brand new,
but it had to be at least 35 years ago! I am considering combining some of her fabrics with my
Spring quilt:

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Spring Quilt

I think she would be pleased....as I have said before she was a Cotton Farmer when she was younger and she always loved roses. I will have to see if I can combine it all into one quilt. (in a color sense)???

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Remember the sweet little kitty we took last October/November? We named her "Luna".
She is still adorable but, over the winter she took a liking to clawing my chairs I had recovered with fabric. So today, I recovered/repaired all the damage and Kitty is happily living outside.
I would prefer she stay inside but she was not happy to live inside and would run out the door every time we opened it. So, in complete exasperation we let her go outside.

Lastly, two of my sweet girls playing around...

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Have a great weekend <3

weaving hearts...

2011-07-06T03:18:00.000-07:00

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a bit of muslin woven for the background.....

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a tartan plaid woven for a heart....

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This picture is "truer" in color....

Have a great day!

My golden bf done!

2011-07-02T17:24:00.000-07:00

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A little cloud added....

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My golden best friend

2011-07-01T18:57:00.000-07:00

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"My golden best friend" is a new piece I have begun and finished...

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I have been busy with working and the children are now out

of school for the Summer. Between the two I have so little free time.

I am continuing the stitching of hearts as long as it interest me.

There are books to read and so many ideas to explore.

I hope to spend more time at the beach.

Other neighborhood cats have found the garden and dug

up many of the seeds that were planted.

The mixed green lettuce has survived along with the cayenne and paprika.

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check her out at etsy : )

Have a great weekend!

wooly heart

2011-06-23T02:51:00.000-07:00

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This is a wip and I would have posted the pictures yesterday but "Blogger" decided not

to let me : /

I have used the beautiful red hand dyed wool and other hand dyed fabrics from Gerdiary.

The indigo colored background cloth is not hand dyed.

I do not even know what I will call this cloth, but I will see.... The inspiration for it came after I hung all of my quilt pieces on the wall. When I stood back I realized a common theme I use is the "heart".

I decided I wanted to do a study of different hearts in cloth. "Different", meaning just different ways of stitching and expressing "matters of the heart".

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details....

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The "woolly" or "wooly" heart! ( wool-ee can be spelled both ways, I learned something new)

Summer Solstice

2011-06-21T11:09:00.000-07:00

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Summer Celebration!

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(gifted) rusty bell, which has a beautiful sound, bundled sage, etc.....

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feathers, sea shell, sea glass, turquoise, amethyst, and (gifted) piece of driftwood from the ocean.

Have a great day!

delicious fabric!

2011-06-16T06:24:00.000-07:00

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Some delicious fabric....hand dyed red wool and various hand dyed fabrics from Gerdiary.

http://gerdiary.blogspot.com/

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As I pulled these lovelies out and ironed them it felt like "play" time for me.....

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Hand dyed fabrics are just exquisite to stitch with. This is going to be fun!

mending ways...

2011-06-16T05:03:00.000-07:00

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Just a bit of mending....
This is a pair of my favorite jeans for my days off. The denim is so worn it is the softest
of soft...ahhhhh! : )

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A wooden sign I recently bought....

Have a great day!